Officials to call for extra force

Despite widespread protests, the city deputy commissioner is adamant to go ahead with the demolition drive to remove illegal constructions that have come up in the prohibited area near a defence ammunition depot.

Though authorities failed to raze buildings on Monday due to heavy protest, the administration was planning to demolish commercial structures either late at night or on Tuesday. To curb resistance from locals, officials also decided to call for extra forces to ensure no untoward incident takes place.

"It was not appropriate to carry out the demolition on Monday as residents were protesting in a large number. But they cannot stop the drive as we are abiding by the law. With the help of extra force, we will start the demolition drive soon," said deputy commissioner of Gurgaon, Rajendra Kataria.

Defending the government decision to target commercial establishments in the 50-metre radius first, Kataria said the decision was taken by higher authorities.

"We are not saying that other structures won’t be demolished but it will be done step by step. Even demolishing structures in the 50-metre zone are a difficult task," Kataria added.

"If it didn't happen in the last 10 years then it does not mean that it will never happen. The air force authorities have written to us several times and the court has also asked us to demolish illegal structures," he said. Kataria also plans to take action against those who damaged public property on Monday.